magic gel polish remover

HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH PERFECTLY: A SIMPLE DIY GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

Ever dream of achieving salon-quality nails at home? Gel polish can be your secret weapon! It offers long-lasting shine, vibrant colors, and chip-resistant wear – all without the hefty price tag of a professional manicure. But achieving that perfect gel polish application can seem daunting at first. Fear not, aspiring nail artist! This guide will break down the process into simple steps, making you a gel polish pro in no time. Get ready to ditch the chipped nails and embrace stunning, long-lasting manicures you can create yourself!

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

CUTICLE OIL

Gel curing and especially gel polish removal can dry out your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin. To maintain moisture in your skin and nail plate, it’s beneficial to invest in cuticle oil.

UV/LED LAMP

A UV/LED curing lamp is essential for gel nails, as it hardens the gel polish layers, making the nails more durable and chip-resistant. “Curing” refers to drying gel nails under a UV/LED lamp, where the light activates a chemical reaction that quickly dries the nails, preventing chipping or smudging immediately after application. This process is why gel manicures last longer than most other types of manicures.

CUTICLE PUSHER

A cuticle pusher is used to expose more of your nail bed, helping your manicure last longer by delaying the visible growth of your nails under the polish.

NAIL BUFF

A nail buffer is an essential part of your nail kit. It gently prepares your nail’s surface by smoothing and evening out imperfections, ensuring an easy and flawless application of gel polish.

NAIL FILE

A nail file shapes your nails and removes gel polish by smoothing the edges and grinding down the surface. This helps maintain the desired nail shape and prepares the nails for new polish.

To remove gel nails, use a medium grit file. For soak-off gel polish, use a 180 grit nail file to remove the hardened top coat before removing the polish.

Tip: you want to avoid damaging the natural nail underneath by using too coarse a nail file.

ACETONE

Acetone is used to clean your nails before applying gel polish and to remove the polish afterward. Any acetone with a content of 60 percent or more will work effectively.

Before application, acetone removes oils and residues to create a clean surface for the gel polish. During removal, it breaks down the gel polish for easy removal. Use cotton balls or lint-free nail wipes to apply the acetone, ensuring no fuzz is left on your nails.

UV GEL MANICURE GLOVES

Wearing UV gel manicure gloves protects your skin from the UV light used to cure gel polish. This is important because long-term exposure to UV light can damage your skin. The gloves shield your skin from unnecessary UV ray exposure.

NAIL CLIPPERS

Nail clippers are used to shape your nails before a gel manicure. Avoid clipping your nails after applying gel polish, as it can break the seal at the tip and cause the polish to peel off.

GEL TOP COAT

A gel top coat is crucial when applying gel polish as it seals in the color, delivering a glossy finish that safeguards nails from chipping and peeling.

GEL BASE COAT

A gel base coat is essential as it ensures the gel polish adheres securely to the natural nail, creating a smooth surface that enhances the durability of gel nails. This is why gel manicures have a longer lifespan compared to regular nail polish.

GEL POLISH

Now comes the enjoyable part—choose your favorite gel colors or try something new!

APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH: STEP BY STEP

CUT AND FILE NAILS

To achieve a stunning gel manicure, begin by shaping your nails. Trim them to your desired size and shape using a nail clipper, then use a nail file to smooth out the edges for flawless application.

 PUSH YOUR CUTICLES DOWN

Utilize a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles, creating a cleaner and more visible nail surface. This tool also helps remove dead skin from the nail plate and promotes even cuticle maintenance. Avoid trimming your cuticles, as this can increase the risk of nail infections by exposing the nail bed.

BUFF YOUR NAILS

Gently buff your nails to smooth the surface and enhance their natural shine, preparing them to bond effectively with gel polish. Avoid excessive buffing, which can weaken and thin your nails.

CLEAN NAILS

Thoroughly cleanse your nails with rubbing alcohol to ensure the polish adheres directly to your natural nail. Any residues like cuticle oil or dust particles can cause premature lifting of the polish.

APPLY GEL BASE COAT

Start with a strong foundation! Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail, ensuring it reaches all the way to the tips (capping the free edge) for extra chip resistance. Once all your nails are coated, cure them under a UV lamp or LED light according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 45 seconds to 1 minute). 

Don’t worry about the tacky feeling – this is normal for uncured gel polish. Just resist the urge to touch your nails, as that can mess up the application.

APPLY GEL POLISH

Now, for the fun part – color! Use thin coats to paint each nail, reaching close to the cuticle but avoiding your skin (a clean-up brush can be handy for minor mistakes). Two thin coats are ideal for most colors, but feel free to add more for extra vibrancy. Remember, thin is better than thick for a smooth, even finish. After each coat, cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 45-60 seconds). That sticky feeling is normal, so resist touching your nails until you’re done!

APPLY GEL TOP COAT

Shine on! Finish your masterpiece with a thin layer of gel top coat, ensuring you cover the entire nail and cap the free edge for ultimate protection. Cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp for at least a minute (as per instructions) to completely dry and seal the polish. Some gels might leave a slightly tacky residue – no worries, a gentle wipe with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol will take care of that, revealing your perfectly polished nails!

HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH ON ACRYLICS

When combining gel polish with acrylic nails, your nail art can remain intact for up to 6 weeks with minimal touch-ups. Before proceeding, familiarize yourself with the differences between gel and acrylic nails.

Here are the recommended steps to follow:

Begin by removing old polish using a non-acetone nail polish remover. This step is crucial to ensure thorough removal of any residual polish from the nail.

Clean and dry the nail completely to eliminate any residue that could affect the application. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that might react with the acrylic. Opt for gentle options like baby wipes or thorough hand washing.

Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat, followed by colored polish and a top coat. Treat acrylic nails similarly to natural nails when applying gel polish, using the steps outlined above. Ensure the base coat is compatible with acrylic to prevent staining.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL TIPS WITH GEL OVERLAY

You can apply gel polish to store-bought nail tips that are glued over your natural nails. The process resembles regular gel polish application but with a few key differences.

Start by pushing back your cuticles, gently buffing the nail surface, and ensuring they are clean. Apply a thin coat of nail glue to each nail and carefully place the nail tips, rocking them to eliminate any trapped air bubbles.

Adjust the size and shape of the nail tips as necessary. Afterward, buff and clean the nail surface before proceeding to apply gel polish. Begin with a base coat followed by at least two layers of color, curing each coat as you apply it.

Before applying the top coat, remove any tacky residue, lightly buff the top color layer, and clean it. Finally, apply and cure the top coat to seal and ensure long-lasting results.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL DECALS OVER GEL POLISH

Ready to level up? Explore Nail Art! Gel polish is perfect for nail art because it allows your designs to shine (literally!) for longer. Here’s a beginner-friendly option using nail decals:

Pick your base: Apply your desired gel polish color as the foundation for your artwork.

Decal magic: Choose your decal design and carefully cut out the section you want to use.

Water decals? Easy! Simply dip a water decal in water to separate it from the backing, then place it on your nail.

Smooth operator: Gently use a wooden stick or your finger to flatten the decal onto your nail. You can even add details or pops of color with extra polish.

Seal the deal: Once your design is perfect, cure it under the lamp for at least 30 seconds. Finish with a layer of gel top coat, cure again, and voila! Show off your artistic masterpiece!

HOW TO MAINTENANCE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Prolong your Gel Mani Magic:

Hydration is key: Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your nails and surrounding skin nourished. This helps prevent chipping and peeling.

Give it time to set: Avoid direct contact with water for at least an hour after your manicure. This allows the gel polish to fully cure and harden.

Gloves are your friend: Protect your nails when doing chores! Wear gloves for washing dishes, cleaning, or anything that involves harsh chemicals.

Shine it on: Apply a top coat every few days to add an extra layer of protection and boost the shine and longevity of your gel polish.

HOW TO REMOVE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Removing gel nail polish is akin to removing acrylic nails, providing comfort and relief for your fingers. Ready for a Refresh? Here’s how to remove your gel polish safely:

Soften it Up: Soak cotton balls in 100% acetone and place them on each nail.

Seal the Deal: Wrap each fingertip snugly with aluminum foil to create a little pocket. This helps trap the acetone and speeds up the removal process.

Patience is Key: Relax and let the magic happen! Soak your nails for at least 10 minutes. The gel polish should be lifting or dissolving easily.

Buff and Moisturize: Once the polish is gone, gently buff your nails to remove any residue. Finish by pampering your nails and cuticles with a nourishing moisturizer or cuticle oil.

FAQ

1. Do I need to prep my nails before applying gel polish?

Absolutely! Gently push back your cuticles, buff your nails to remove shine, and clean them with alcohol wipes to remove any oils.

2. How thin should the gel polish layers be?

Thin coats are key! Multiple thin layers will create a smooth, opaque finish that’s less prone to chipping.

3. What if I accidentally get gel polish on my skin?

Don’t panic! Before curing, use a cotton swab dipped in acetone or alcohol to gently wipe away the mistake.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! With a little practice and these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving salon-quality gel manicures from the comfort of your own home. Remember, start with prepping your nails properly, apply thin coats of gel polish, and cure them according to the instructions. Don’t forget to moisturize your nails and avoid harsh chemicals to extend the life of your manicure. Now get creative and have fun with different colors and even try some beginner-friendly nail art! With gel polish, your stunning nails are just a few steps away!

THE 18 BEST LONG LASTING NAIL POLISHES: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LONG-LASTING POLISHES

Tired of chipped manicures that don’t live up to the hype? We’ve all been there! But fret no more, because this guide is here to unlock the secrets of long-lasting nail polish. We’ll delve into the world of polishes that defy chipping and fading, keeping your nails looking salon-fresh for days on end. Whether you’re a busy professional, a nail art enthusiast, or simply someone who craves a flawless manicure, this guide is your secret weapon. Get ready to discover the top 18 long-lasting nail polishes, along with helpful tips and tricks for maximizing their wear time. Keep reading!

OUR TOP PICKS

ESSIE GEL COUTURE NAIL POLISH

Crowned the “Best Overall” for long-lasting nail polish, Essie’s Gel Couture system is a fan favorite for a reason.  It delivers a salon-quality manicure at home, minus the UV lamp and harsh removal process. This two-step system boasts a high-shine top coat and chip-resistant color that can last up to 14 days with proper application. Essie Gel Couture also wins points for its comfortable, wide brush that allows for smooth, even application. Plus, with a vast array of stunning colors to choose from, you can find the perfect shade to match any mood or outfit.  Whether you crave a classic red or a trendy glitter finish, Essie Gel Couture has you covered.

ESSIE BALLET NUDES GEL COUTURE

If you’re aiming for elegant neutrals for your nails, then the nude Essie Ballet collection in their Gel Couture line could be the perfect match for you. This collection is inspired by the delicate colors of the world of ballet, offering a range of soft pinks, creamy beiges and subtle greys. All of the shades in this collection are formulated with the same long-lasting, chip-resistant properties as the core Essie Gel Couture line, promising up to two weeks of wear without foundation. Whether you prefer a sheer, barely there manicure or a more opaque, cream manicure, the Essie Ballet Nude collection offers a sophisticated and versatile choice for those who love the look Classic and sleek hands. Looking at the image below, this paint color could be an ideal choice for light pink nail designs.

SALLY HANSEN MIRACLE GEL

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel offers a compelling alternative to Essie Gel Couture, particularly for those seeking a budget-friendly, long-lasting option. Unlike Essie’s system, Miracle Gel doesn’t require a separate top coat. It’s a two-step system with a built-in gel-like top coat within the color polish itself. This simplifies the application process and saves you money. Users report achieving up to 8 days of chip-resistant wear with Miracle Gel, making it a strong contender for long-lasting color. Plus, Sally Hansen boasts a wide color range, ensuring you can find a shade that complements your style. If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to achieve a long-lasting manicure at home, Sally Hansen Miracle Gel is definitely worth considering.

BUTTER LONDON PATENT SHINE 10X LACQUER

Boasting a luxurious, high-gloss finish, butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Lacquer caters to those who crave a chip-resistant manicure with a touch of sophistication.  This polish goes beyond just color, aiming to deliver a gel-like shine without requiring a UV lamp. The 10X in its name refers to the brand’s claim that it offers up to 10 days of chip-free wear.  It’s formulated with a “buttery smooth” texture that glides easily onto nails, promoting a flawless application.  While not quite reaching the 14-day wear time of some competitors, butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Lacquer is a strong contender for those seeking a long-lasting polish with a luxurious feel and a dazzling shine. 

CND VINYLUX LONGWEAR NAIL POLISH

CND Vinylux Longwear Nail Polish takes a slightly different approach to long-lasting color. Unlike some gel-like polishes, Vinylux is a two-step system that skips the UV lamp and harsh removal process. It boasts a unique formula that hardens upon exposure to natural light, progressively strengthening the wear time over time. While it might not reach the absolute top wear times of some competitors (lasting around 7 days), CND Vinylux makes up for it in several ways. Firstly, it’s known for being gentler on nails compared to some gel polishes. Secondly, the two-step system with its built-in base coat simplifies application. Finally, CND Vinylux offers a vast color selection, including a popular range of nourishing shades infused with keratin, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E to promote healthy nails alongside long-lasting color.

OLIVE & JUNE NAIL POLISH

In the realm of vibrant, chip-resistant polishes, Olive & June Nail Polish stands out for its commitment to both color and longevity.  This brand prioritizes clean beauty, offering polishes free from 10+ harmful ingredients commonly found in nail products.  Despite this focus on clean ingredients, Olive & June polishes boast an impressive 7-day wear time, defying the misconception that non-toxic polishes can’t be long-lasting.  The brand also takes pride in its easy-to-use, fast-drying formula and its unique, wide brush designed for flawless application at home.  Olive & June offers a truly extensive color palette, ranging from playful brights and chic neutrals to trendy shimmers and sophisticated cremes.

DEBORAH LIPPMANN GEL LAB PRO

Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro nail polish isn’t just about stunning color, it’s a complete nail care package. Offered in a dazzling array of 85 shades, you’ll find everything from eye-catching brights and shimmering glitters to universally flattering neutrals.

This polish goes beyond vibrant choices. Its highly pigmented formula delivers rich color in just two coats, and with proper care (including a base and top coat), it can last a stunning two weeks. But the pampering doesn’t stop there.

The Gel Lab Pro formula is infused with nourishing ingredients that benefit your nails. Biotin helps stimulate keratin production, while evening primrose oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acids, combats moisture loss. Finally, silk fibers add a touch of luxury and contribute to the polish’s ultra-glossy, long-lasting finish.

So, ditch the frequent touch-ups and chipped nails. Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro offers vibrant, long-lasting color with a touch of pampering for your nails.

OPI SOFT SHADES NAIL LACQUER COLLECTION

Unfortunately, OPI’s Soft Shades Nail Lacquer Collection isn’t specifically known for being long-lasting.  While OPI offers a variety of polishes formulated for extended wear, the Soft Shades Collection seems to prioritize a different benefit.

Based on available information, the Soft Shades Collection likely focuses on delivering soft, subtle colors with a sheer or creamy finish. These polishes are ideal for creating a clean, elegant manicure or adding a touch of delicate color to your nails. If you’re looking for long-lasting, chip-resistant polishes, OPI offers other lines specifically designed for that purpose.

GUCCI GLOSSY NAIL POLISH IN GOLDIE RED

Gucci’s Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in Goldie Red isn’t specifically marketed for long-lasting wear. While Gucci offers luxurious beauty products, their focus with this polish seems to be on high-impact color and a touch of luxury.

Goldie Red boasts a vibrant red shade with a glossy finish, formulated with plant-based ingredients.  It comes with a custom-designed brush for a smooth application and aims to flatter your nails by smoothing imperfections.  While long-lasting wear isn’t a top selling point, if you’re looking for a bold red polish with a luxurious feel and a high-shine finish, Gucci’s Vernis à Ongles in Goldie Red could be a tempting choice.

ELLA+MILA NAIL POLISH, ME COLLECTION – MY POOL PARTY

Dive into summer with a splash of color! ella+mila’s “Me Collection – My Pool Party” nail polish offers a refreshing baby blue hue with a subtle shimmer, perfect for bringing a touch of poolside fun to your fingertips. This polish is formulated specifically with safety in mind, making it ideal for little ones who want to join in on the mani-me time.  While it may not be the most long-lasting option, its quick-drying formula ensures a speedy application and chip removal is a breeze. So, paint your nails poolside-perfect with “My Pool Party” and enjoy the vibrant summer vibes!

NAILS, INC. 45 SECOND SPEEDY GLOSS

Calling all busy bees! Nails Inc.’s 45 Second Speedy Gloss is a game-changer for those who crave flawless nails but are short on time. This polish lives up to its name, boasting a super-fast drying formula that sets in just 45 seconds. No more waiting around for your manicure to dry – with Speedy Gloss, you can get back to your busy life in a flash.

But speed isn’t the only perk. This polish also delivers high-shine color with a salon-quality finish.  Available in a wide range of shades, you’ll find everything from classic cremes to playful shimmers to match your mood and style.  Whether you’re dashing out the door in the morning or need a quick polish touch-up, Nails Inc. 45 Second Speedy Gloss is the perfect solution for beautiful nails on the go.

ORLY ANYTHING GOES

Orly’s Anything Goes nail polish defies the misconception that glitter polish is just for kids, offering a sophisticated and glamorous option for all ages. With its durable wear, versatile application, surprisingly smooth texture, and easy removal, this hidden gem stands out as a must-have for those seeking a long-lasting and mesmerizing manicure. Whether worn alone for a statement look or layered over another shade for added depth, Anything Goes elevates any manicure, promising to turn heads with its dazzling sparkle that lasts for weeks.

JINSOON PIXIE SHEER GLOSS

Jin Soon polishes boast a remarkable durability, with Pixie, in particular, lasting up to seven days with just two to three coats and drying quickly for added convenience. Unlike many other polishes, Pixie maintains its integrity, resisting cracking even after several days of wear. What sets Jin Soon apart is its commitment to quality and ethical standards: their polishes are devoid of harsh chemicals, feature UV filter protection, and are cruelty-free. Notably, they’ve transitioned to a 10-free formula, eliminating formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, triphenyl phosphate, parabens, and lead from their ingredients, ensuring both safety and performance.

LE MINI MACARON MINI GEL NAIL POLISH KIT

Want salon-quality nails without the salon price tag? This all-in-one gel polish kit is your secret weapon!

This adorable kit boasts 10 mesmerizing pearlescent shades, offering incredible color payoff that rivals professional manicures.  The best part? This polish acts as a base, color, and top coat, saving you both time and money.

Plus, the kit comes with everything you need to get started: gel polish remover wraps, a mini nail file, and a cuticle stick.  Enjoy long-lasting, chip-resistant wear for up to 14 days, all from the comfort of your home.

Here’s a heads up:  The included LED lamp is compact, which means curing each nail individually. While this extends the application time slightly, it also offers a benefit – less UV light exposure for your hands.  The portability of the lamp makes it perfect for travel or quick touch-ups on the go.

ILNP JULIETTE HOLOGRAPHIC NAIL POLISH, ROSE GOLD

Get ready to mesmerize with ILNP Juliette Holographic Nail Polish in Rose Gold! This polish isn’t just another pretty shade; it’s a captivating display of color and shine.  Imagine a luxurious rose gold base infused with a blinding holographic sparkle.  With every shift of your hand, your nails will transform, catching the light and revealing a dazzling spectrum of color.

ILNP Juliette is more than just mesmerizing looks, though.  This polish is formulated with a focus on quality.  The Ultra Metallic™ formula applies smoothly and delivers rich, opaque color, ensuring a flawless finish.  While long-lasting wear times aren’t specifically mentioned for this polish, ILNP is known for its high-quality formulas that resist chipping and fading for a respectable wear time.

So ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with ILNP Juliette. This rose gold holographic polish is the perfect way to add a touch of magic and glamour to your fingertips.

KIKI PRETTY NAIL GRAFFITI

Calling all nail art enthusiasts and free spirits! KIKI Pretty Nail Graffiti is your gateway to endless nail design possibilities. Unlike traditional polishes, KIKI’s innovative formula is peel-off, giving you the freedom to change your look as often as your mood strikes.

This unique polish comes in a convenient pen-like applicator for mess-free application. With a water-based formula, it dries quickly and removes effortlessly, leaving no harsh chemicals behind.

Whether you’re a seasoned nail artist or a beginner who wants to experiment, KIKI Pretty Nail Graffiti is the perfect tool.  Use it for freehand designs, add playful details to a solid color manicure, or create intricate nail art – the possibilities are endless!  So unleash your creativity and express yourself with KIKI’s fun and playful peel-off nail polish.

EMILIE HEATHE NAIL ARTIST NAIL POLISH

Cultivate healthy, beautiful nails with a touch of sophistication. Emilie Heathe Nail Artist Nail Polish offers a luxurious experience that goes beyond vibrant colors. This polish is formulated with care, boasting vegan and cruelty-free ingredients that nourish your nails while delivering long-lasting color.

Emilie Heathe polishes are infused with a blend of beneficial components like bamboo extract, sea buckthorn oil, and rice bran oil. These ingredients work together to strengthen nails, promote healthy growth, and combat chipping. Available in a delightful range of 12 shades, you’ll find everything from classic cremes to trendy brights to complement any style.

CIRQUE COLORS CREME NAIL POLISH

Cirque Colors Creme Nail Polish is a favorite among those who crave both vibrant color and a healthy, non-toxic formula. These polishes boast a rich, opaque application in just two coats, ensuring your chosen shade gets its moment to shine. Unlike some long-wearing options that can be harsh on nails, Cirque Colors prioritizes a clean, 10-free formula free of formaldehyde, toluene, and other harmful ingredients.

Available in a delightful array of colors, from classic cremes and chic neutrals to trendy brights and playful pops of color, there’s a shade to suit every mood and style. Cirque Colors polishes are also known for their smooth, long-lasting finish. While not the absolute longest-wearing polishes on the market, they offer a respectable chip-resistant lifespan, making them ideal for those who prioritize healthy nails and vibrant color without sacrificing too much on wear time.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING LONG-LASTING NAIL POLISH

Longing for a flawless manicure that defies chipping and fading? Choosing the right long-lasting nail polish is key. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind:

Wear Time: This is a top priority! Polish brands often advertise their wear time, so this is a good starting point. Look for polishes boasting 7-14 days of wear for a truly long-lasting effect.

Formula: Gel-like formulas are popular for their extended wear and chip-resistant properties. However, some may require a UV lamp for curing. Explore non-gel options that prioritize long wear if UV lamps aren’t your preference.

Base and Top Coat: Don’t underestimate the power of a good base and top coat! These work together to create a strong foundation for your polish and prevent chipping. Look for a system specifically designed for the chosen polish brand for optimal results.

Application: Smooth and even application is vital for long-lasting wear. Choose polishes with a comfortable brush that facilitates a flawless application. 1-2 coats are usually sufficient for most long-lasting polishes.

Removal Process: While long wear is desirable, consider the removal process. Some long-lasting polishes might require stronger removers, so prioritize gentle formulas if nail health is a concern.

Bonus Tip: Don’t skip proper nail prep!  Gently push back cuticles, buff your nails lightly for better polish adhesion, and make sure your nails are clean and dry before application for extended wear.

CONCLUSION

Waving goodbye to chipped nails and endless touch-ups is now a reality! This guide has unveiled the top 18 long-lasting nail polishes, equipping you with the knowledge to achieve a salon-quality manicure at home.

Remember, consider your priorities – wear time, formula, ease of application, or a touch of pampering. With the vast array of options available, there’s a perfect long-lasting polish waiting to be discovered. So go forth, experiment with color and shine, and flaunt flawless fingertips for days on end!